Flag Day is a holiday celebrated in the United States on June 14th each year. It commemorates the adoption of the flag of the United States, which happened on June 14, 1777. The flag, commonly known as the Stars and Stripes, consists of 13 alternating red and white stripes representing the original thirteen American colonies, along with a blue field in the top left corner containing 50 white stars, each representing a state in the country.
Flag Day is an occasion to honor and respect the American flag as a symbol of the nation’s unity, freedom, and history. It serves as an opportunity for Americans to display the flag at their homes, businesses, and public buildings. Many communities organize parades, ceremonies, and patriotic events to celebrate Flag Day. Schools often teach students about the history and significance of the flag during this time.
While Flag Day is widely recognized and celebrated, it is not a federal holiday, so businesses and government offices generally remain open. However, it holds a special place in the hearts of many Americans as a day to reflect upon the nation’s values and pay tribute to the flag that represents them.
Flag day also offers a great opportunity to review your flag. Flags do get wear and tear from the brutal South Florida sun, torrential downpours, and the whipping caused by the wind. If your flag is worn and tattered, today’s a great day to replace your flag.
Of course, this begs the question: How do you properly dispose of a flag?
The proper way to dispose of an American flag is through a respectful and dignified retirement ceremony. The United States Flag Code provides guidelines for the proper handling and disposal of the flag. Here’s the recommended procedure for flag disposal:
- Ensure the flag is no longer suitable for display due to wear and tear, damage, or when it becomes faded and unserviceable.
- Find a local organization that conducts flag retirement ceremonies, such as the Boy Scouts of America, the American Legion, or the Veterans of Foreign Wars. These organizations often hold flag retirement ceremonies and can assist with the proper disposal.
- Alternatively, if you cannot find a local organization, you can conduct a flag retirement ceremony on your own. Here’s how:a. Start by folding the flag in the customary triangle manner, with only the blue field and stars showing.
b. Build a fire in a suitable and safe location, preferably in a fire pit or an appropriate burning container.
c. Place the folded flag on the fire while reciting the Pledge of Allegiance or another respectful statement.
d. Allow the flag to burn completely. While it burns, it is customary to salute or stand at attention, showing respect for the flag.
e. Once the flag is fully consumed, ensure that the ashes are collected and appropriately buried.
It’s important to note that burning the flag is the preferred method of disposal as it symbolizes a dignified and solemn retirement. Other methods, such as burial or shredding, are not considered appropriate according to the Flag Code.
The Miami Springs community is proud to celebrate and honor the American flag. Volunteers donate their time and money to place the American flag up and down the Curtiss Parkway bike path in the center of the city.
Across from City Hall you’ll find the American flag flying above the flag of the State of Florida and a flag representing the City of Miami Springs.
Private organizations also proudly fly the American flag like the Oleeta West Dade Masonic Center shown below.
And hundreds of Miami Springs residents proudly fly the American flag at their home as a sign of support of our great nation and the freedom this flag represents.
